But the Imps still needed a goal and, incredibly, substitute Simon Yeo, who hadn’t scored in more than six months, supplied it with a stunning volley from around 25 yards with four minutes left.

It was a glorious finale to the regular season which had started with the club having only just staved off liquidation amid crippling debts.

“We were just coming out of administration so it was weird season for the club in general,” added Marriott.

“No-one expected anything from us and we were favourites for relegation. But because no-one expected anything, we played with a bit of freedom and Keith was really good at taking the pressure off us.

“It was a great effort because a lot of people behind the scenes had put in a lot of effort. The chairman, Rob Bradley, was amazing and what we did was a massive reward for everybody.

“It was a crazy game and celebrations at the end were incredible. They are great memories and I hope the team can do the same this weekend.”

Imps fans celebrate after the 1-1 draw with Torquay which sealed a play-off place (Image: Chris Vaughan)

Like Cowley’s side today, the class of 2003 was a team no-one liked playing against.

And despite possessing skilful players like Peter Gain, Richard Butcher and Yeo, opposing managers were quick to label the Imps as long ball merchants.

“We got in teams’ faces and probably weren’t always the prettiest to watch, but everyone knew their roles and we were very effective,” admitted Marriott.

“My kids are Lincoln City mad at the moment and I’ve watched a few games this season.

“From what I’ve seen, they do mix it up. Matt Green and Matt Rhead – who I played with at Mansfield – have different strengths and are both fantastic at what they do.

“Matt Rhead likes to upset people and a lot of centre-halves will not have come up against a striker like him before.

Matt Green and Matt Rhead (Image: Chris Vaughan/CameraSport)

“He’s awkward, he’s big and strong, but if you’ve got a style that works for you, I don’t see a problem in using it and he’s been a major part of Lincoln’s success.

“There’s also the pace of Matt Green, who runs his socks off, so they’ve got good players who complement each other.

“The manager has got options. He can use Matt Rhead if he wants to, but they’ve also got the flair of Alex Woodyard and Freck [Lee Frecklington] who can create things.

“So it’s harsh to call them a long-ball team. I think it’s sour grapes from other managers more often than not. Ultimately, they don’t like getting roughed up a bit.”

There are other similarities between that 2003 team and the today’s crop. Away from the pitch, Cowley is a master at engaging with the community and making the fans feel part of the club.

Keith Alexander is interviewed by BBC Radio Lincolnshire's Michael Hortin after the 1-1 draw with Torquay in 2003 (Image: Chris Vaughan)

The late, great Alexander made a similar impact during his four-year spell at the helm, as Marriott recalled fondly.

“Keith was brilliant as a person and as a man-manager – the best I’ve ever dealt with,” he said.

“From what I hear the Cowleys are the same. Recently, my lad got to meet Danny on his birthday, which made his day. It’s great that Danny always takes time to talk to people. It’s not something you see much in football these days.

“Keith set some unbelievable standards, but what they’re doing now seems to be surpassing it. They’ve definitely got the potential to take the club further.”